Describes the journey of Jacob Grant - a composite of all young children with autism - and his family as they learn The PLAY Project approach. The book follows Jacob along the path from early diagnosis until entry into kindergarten. Through a series of office visits, "Dr. Rick" empowers Jim and Julie Grant to be Jacob's best play partners. He also guides them on how to use Jacob's misbehavior - tantrums in public, sibling rivalry, picky eating and sleep problems - to help him learn appropriate behavior and social skills. Over time, Jacob moves from nonverbal to constantly talking, and from self-isolation to being warmly connected. Based on scientific research and decades of practice, this guide provides parents and professionals with a new way of working and interacting with young children with autism